The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Chesapeake has received a Dominion Virginia Power Exceptional Energy Grant for the 2011/2012 school year, which will carry over its workforce development initiatives from the 2010/2011 school year. The IEC chapter is excited to be working with Dominion Virginia Power again this year and plans to continue its renewable energy awareness project, with an added focus on high school and technical education students in Maryland counties, including Charles, Prince George's, and St. Mary's. IEC Chesapeake will also conduct several educational presentations at Edison Academy in Virginia as well.

In addition to educating students about the emerging trend of renewable energy/technology and its impact on the betterment of the environment, the program also concentrates on the career opportunities that the renewable energy market presents in both construction trades and other applicable fields. IEC Chesapeake will incorporate visual references to and demonstration of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCSs) to provide students insight about this emerging technology. This project will be conducted via classroom presentations which will be animated and illustrative to keep students engaged and encourage participation. The goal is to generate a heightened interest and peak the curiosity of students that have the potential to be future leaders of the industry.

IEC Chesapeake greatly appreciates the workforce development support of Dominion Virginia Power.